Introduction – The Sizzle and the Smokies
If you’ve spent any time strollin’ through downtown Gatlinburg with a growlin’ stomach and a nose for somethin’ hearty, chances are you’ve wandered past the woodsy porch and smoky aroma of Howard’s Steakhouse Gatlinburg. Tucked right along the Little Pigeon River with its rustic cabin charm and neon steak sign callin’ like a siren song to every meat-lover in town, it’s been servin’ up plates of protein longer than some visitors have been alive.
Now I’ll be honest with ya—I remember when Howard’s was one of the only steak joints in Gatlinburg. Back then, it was the place to go when you wanted a fat, juicy cut of beef and a cold beer after hikin’ Alum Cave. But these days? With all the fancy new eateries poppin’ up and celebrity chefs tryin’ to toss truffle oil on everything but the sidewalks, I had to ask myself: Does Howard’s Steakhouse Gatlinburg still have that signature sizzle—or has the fire fizzled out?
I rolled up hungry, skeptical, and ready to investigate.
Over the course of this review, I’ll walk ya through everything from the first impression and menu standouts to the riverside views, pricing, and how it stacks up against other steakhouses in town. If it’s still got the magic, I’ll tell ya. And if it don’t? Well, you know I won’t sugarcoat it—not even with a side of peach cobbler.
So, if you’re thinkin’ of stoppin’ by Howard’s Steakhouse Gatlinburg for your next dinner out in the Smokies, pull up a chair and let ol’ Gary give you the full scoop. Because steak this storied deserves more than a Yelp star and a shrug—it deserves a proper hometown look under the hood.
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First Impressions – Rustic Charm or Dated Diner?
There’s somethin’ about Howard’s Steakhouse Gatlinburg that makes you slow your stroll when you pass by. Maybe it’s the log-cabin exterior that looks like it was carved right outta the mountainside, or maybe it’s the way the river out back sparkles just right under that old wooden deck. Either way, it’s got that cozy mountain charm that whispers, “Hey there, you look hungry.”
But let’s be honest—charm and dated can sometimes dance on the same floor. So when I walked up those familiar steps, I took a second to soak it all in. The front patio still has that welcoming look, especially when the weather’s playin’ nice and the front doors are open wide. But if you’ve been comin’ to Gatlinburg for a while, you might wonder if time’s caught up with the ol’ gal.
Exterior & Location
You can’t beat the spot—it’s smack dab on Parkway, close to all the downtown action, and right next to the creek for that classic Smoky Mountain feel. There’s a little bridge that takes you over the river and straight into the steak-scented embrace of the front door. In my book, riverside seating gives any restaurant a leg up—and Howard’s has been playin’ that card for years.
Parking? Tricky, like most of Gatlinburg. But if you’re stayin’ downtown, this is an easy stroll—and you know what that means…
Planning a Gatlinburg getaway? Stay close to the good stuff—Howard’s included—so you can stroll to your steak and waddle home happy.
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Inside the Dining Room
Steppin’ inside is like walkin’ into your granddad’s mountain lodge—warm, wood-paneled walls, stone fireplaces, and taxidermy that’s been around longer than some waitstaff. The place hums with a kind of old-school energy, and you’ll find a mix of curious tourists, local couples on date night, and families lookin’ for a hearty meal.
Now, the place has seen a few birthdays, sure, and some of the furniture might squeak louder than the front door, but that’s part of its charm. If you’re lookin’ for sleek and modern, you might be better off headin’ down the street. But if you’re here for comfort, character, and the promise of a steak grilled just right? Well, you’re in the right place.
The Menu Breakdown – Still Serving Up the Goods?
Alright, now that we’ve settled in and soaked up that rustic mountain vibe, it’s time to see what Howard’s is dishin’ out these days. Because a steakhouse can charm you with a river view and a cozy booth all it wants—but if the steak don’t sizzle, it’s all bark and no bite.
And let me tell ya, Howard’s Steakhouse Gatlinburg still bites—in the best way possible.
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Steaks & Specialties
Let’s start with the obvious. The ribeye? Juicy. Charred just enough on the outside to get that kiss-of-the-grill crust with a pink, tender middle that makes you close your eyes on the first chew. I asked for medium rare, and that’s exactly what I got—no gray mystery meat here.
The New York strip is another local favorite—thick, savory, and seasoned without being overpowered. If you’re really hungry (or just feelin’ a little wild), try the Howard’s Special Sirloin—their house-cut option that’s just enough steak to make you feel proud without needing a wheelbarrow to get back to your car.
And for folks not feelin’ steak (bless your heart), there’s grilled trout, smoked pork chops, and a country-fried steak that’ll make you believe in gravy again.
Portion Sizes & Plating
Howard’s don’t mess around with portion sizes. You’re gettin’ a plate that could double as a Smoky Mountain sled, and it usually comes with a baked potato big enough to anchor a boat and a salad that’s more than just lettuce and a prayer.
Is it fancy? Nah. It’s hearty. This is mountain fare—served with love, not tweezers.
Pricing vs. Experience
Now, let’s talk dollars. You’ll pay more than you would at a chain steakhouse, but not so much that it’ll scare off the average traveler. And frankly, you’re payin’ for the experience too: that riverside view, the Gatlinburg history, and the satisfaction of a steak that makes you loosen your belt.
Looking for the kind of dinner that sticks to your ribs and your memories? Make it easy—stay nearby so you can walk off that steak in the mountain air.
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The Drinks & Desserts – Hidden Gems or Afterthoughts?
Now I’ll tell ya straight—steak may be the headliner at Howard’s Steakhouse Gatlinburg, but a good meal ain’t complete without a cold drink in one hand and a fork in the other reachin’ for somethin’ sweet.
So I rolled up my sleeves, gave the dessert menu a good once-over, and ordered a little somethin’ to sip and a little somethin’ to savor. And buddy, I was not disappointed.
The Drink List – Cold, Classic, and Local-Friendly
Howard’s has a full bar with a solid lineup of domestic beers, Tennessee whiskies, and classic cocktails. If you’re not lookin’ to get fancy, a cold mug of draft beer does the trick just fine, especially if you’re sittin’ out on the deck with the river babblin’ nearby.
They’ve also got a couple local brews from the Smoky Mountain Brewery and other nearby taps that add a nice touch if you like to sip local while you chew local. Wine list? Modest, but functional. Don’t expect sommelier-level picks, but they’ve got enough to pair nicely with a filet or sirloin.
Moonshine lovers? You’ll need to head down the street for a tasting—but if you’re stickin’ to classic drinks with your meal, Howard’s bar gets the job done with a tip of the hat to tradition.
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The Dessert Menu – Classic Southern Sweets
Now here’s where Howard’s leans hard into comfort territory. The cobbler—peach or blackberry, take your pick—is warm, gooey, and piled under a scoop of vanilla ice cream like it just rolled outta Granny’s oven. No modern flair, no deconstructed this-or-that. Just the kind of dessert that reminds you why cast iron pans should be passed down in wills.
The chocolate cake is rich and fudgy, with enough sweetness to satisfy without sendin’ you into a sugar coma. They also serve up a mean slice of pecan pie if you’re lucky enough to catch it before it sells out.
And yep—every dessert tastes better on the patio.
After dessert like this, trust me—you’ll want a soft bed close by instead of a long drive. Treat yourself to a walkable night in Gatlinburg.
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Service & Speed – Southern Hospitality or Slow Burn?
Now I’ve always said that you can tell a lot about a restaurant by how they treat folks who walk in wearin’ hiking boots and smellin’ like mountain air. And at Howard’s Steakhouse Gatlinburg, I’m happy to report the welcome was warm enough to melt butter on a biscuit.
But warm fuzzies aside, let’s break down the experience with the same honest-to-goodness local eye y’all count on from me.
Staff Friendliness & Attentiveness
The hostess greeted me like I was her second cousin showin’ up to a potluck. Big smile, clear directions to the table, and a “We’re glad you’re here” that felt genuine—not the kind that’s printed on a laminated training card.
My server was quick to offer drink suggestions, knew the menu inside and out (even gave me a heads-up that the trout had just come in fresh that morning), and never let my sweet tea run dry. That’s the kind of attentiveness that makes you feel like more than just another seat at the table.
Even better? The staff didn’t seem rushed—even when things got busier later in the meal. They were movin’ quick, sure, but with a rhythm that said they knew their flow. You want Southern hospitality? This is it.
Speed & Efficiency
Now, you ain’t gettin’ fast food fast. But that ain’t the goal here. This is a sit-down, take-your-time, enjoy-the-view kinda place. From order to plate, it took about 20–25 minutes for my steak to arrive—which, for a thick, cooked-to-order cut, is pretty spot on.
Salads and bread hit the table early, drinks stayed topped off, and I never had to play “Where’s my waiter?” like it’s a game of hide-and-seek.
Family-Friendliness & Special Requests
Saw several families seated nearby—and the staff handled the kiddos like pros. Booster seats, high chairs, and patience to match. Even overheard the waitress workin’ with a customer on a gluten-free option, which tells me they’re willin’ to accommodate when needed.
Great service, full bellies, and no car ride after? That’s how you vacation right. Stay close to where the smiles and sweet tea flow.
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Riverside Seating – Worth the Wait by the Creek?
Now look, I’ve always believed food tastes better with a view—and if that view happens to come with the sound of a Smoky Mountain creek rushin’ past your table like it’s singin’ you a song, then buddy, you’ve hit the jackpot.
Howard’s Steakhouse Gatlinburg may be known for its steaks, but that creekside patio out back? That’s the real scene-stealer.
The Back Deck Experience
Picture this: you’re sippin’ sweet tea, leanin’ back in your chair, and watchin’ the water flow gently past while the breeze carries the scent of grilled sirloin and wildflowers. It’s like nature and steak got together and planned your perfect afternoon.
The wooden deck behind Howard’s stretches along the creekbank, dotted with tables that offer a front-row seat to nature’s dinner show. It’s peaceful, shaded, and just far enough from Parkway’s hustle that you can hear the water more than the traffic.
Best Times to Grab a Table
Here’s the insider scoop: that deck fills up faster than a buffet on Sunday. If you want creekside seating, show up early—especially for lunch or early dinner. The best time? Around 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. before the dinner rush.
In spring and fall, the vibe is unbeatable. You’ve got blooming wildflowers or autumn leaves floatin’ by while you dig into a ribeye. Summer afternoons can be toasty, but the shade and breeze off the water make it mighty tolerable.
Is It Worth the Wait?
Absolutely. If they tell you it’s a 20-minute wait for a creekside table, do yourself a favor and say, “We’ll wait.” This is one of those Gatlinburg moments you’ll talk about long after your vacation’s over.
I once overheard a couple say they’d come back just for the patio—even if the food was average (spoiler: it ain’t). That’s the kind of ambiance we’re talkin’ about here.
Dinner beside a mountain creek? Yeah, you’ll want to book nearby so you can soak it in slow.
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Comparing Howard’s – How It Stands Among Gatlinburg Steakhouses
You can’t toss a hickory stick in downtown Gatlinburg without hittin’ a steakhouse. From rustic lodges to upscale grills, this town is packed tighter than the Parkway on a Saturday with places claimin’ to serve the “best steak in the Smokies.”
So how does Howard’s Steakhouse Gatlinburg hold up next to the other local legends?
Howard’s vs. The Peddler Steakhouse
Now The Peddler is probably the first name folks hear when lookin’ for a top-tier steak dinner in Gatlinburg. And yeah, it’s fancy. Built into an old log cabin with white tablecloths and a view of the river, it’s definitely more of a “date night” than “jeans and boots” vibe.
Howard’s, on the other hand, is approachable. You don’t need a reservation weeks in advance, and the prices are a touch friendlier. You’ll still get a solid cut of meat, and you’ll feel more at home—especially if you’re rollin’ in with kids or after a long hike.
Howard’s vs. Alamo Steakhouse
Alamo’s got a fiery reputation—literally. They cook their steaks over an oak-fired grill, and they’ve got a slightly more upscale presentation. It’s one of the best in town, no doubt, but it’s also a little outta the way compared to Howard’s downtown location.
If convenience is king, Howard’s wins. You can shop the strip, take in the sights, then stroll right over to the creek for dinner without needin’ to hop in the car.
Howard’s vs. Cherokee Grill
Cherokee Grill leans into the classy mountain lodge vibe—dark wood, moody lighting, and a menu that features cuts like the Prosperity Steak and baked mac ‘n’ cheese that’s the stuff of dreams. It’s a great choice for folks wantin’ something a tad more upscale.
Howard’s, meanwhile, stays true to its down-home roots. It may not have the polish of Cherokee Grill, but it’s got a charm all its own—and a creekside seat that’ll give even the fanciest booths in town a run for their money.
The Verdict from Grinning Gary
If you want refined dining with presentation flair, head to The Peddler or Cherokee. But if you’re cravin’ a real Smoky Mountain experience—friendly faces, generous plates, and the soundtrack of a creek singin’ below your boots—Howard’s Steakhouse Gatlinburg is still a contender.
Especially for families, first-time visitors, or folks who just want a laid-back steakhouse that feels like Gatlinburg, not Nashville in disguise.
Final Thoughts – Does Howard’s Still Sizzle?
Well folks, I came into this review with a belly full of memories and a bit of skepticism. With all the shiny new steakhouses poppin’ up around Gatlinburg faster than you can say “medium rare,” I had to know if Howard’s Steakhouse Gatlinburg still had that fire in its cast iron soul—or if it was coastin’ on nostalgia and creekside charm.
After a full meal, a porch swing of people-watchin’, and a whole lotta forkfuls later, here’s my verdict:
Yes, Howard’s still sizzles—and it does it in that quietly confident way only a seasoned Gatlinburg staple can. It might not have the flash of newer spots or the white linen of upscale joints, but what it does have is character, consistency, and a connection to this town’s heart that you can’t fake.
The steaks are solid. The portions are generous. The staff makes you feel like you’re part of the family reunion even if you just rolled in from Florida. And that creek? Lord have mercy—it’s a dinner soundtrack like no other.
Howard’s may not be the trendiest restaurant on the Parkway, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It knows what it is: a dependable, laid-back, good-eatin’ experience with no pretense and a whole lotta flavor.
So whether you’re a first-timer wonderin’ where to get a proper Gatlinburg steak or a long-time visitor wonderin’ if the old favorite still holds up, I say this: pull up a chair at Howard’s. Order the ribeye. Sit out on the deck. And remember why you fell in love with this mountain town in the first place.
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